What would you recommend for increasing my buoyancy while swimming in the sea?

Question

In order to get fit, my husband and I (both over 60 years old) want to swim in the sea, but we don't swim well (without buoys we sink after 5 minutes or after swimming 10 yards) and the medium height waves disturb us. Inscreasing our buoyancy would help us to swim (and keep alive). Is there any device that doesn't look too childish and ridiculous ? Perhaps a miniature surfboard? A neoprene jacket? Thanks from Brazil, 7 degrees below the Equator line. Valdenira.

Answer 1

I would say that you should swim at a beach that is facing N-NE as that will help minimize the waves that you have to deal with, also, I would only swim in waist deep water.  As long as you do that, you should be fine.

Answer 2

What does it matter if you look ridiculous. Saftey is the number one importance, who cares what you look like.

I reccomend an easy to use life jacket which is relatively cheap and so easy to put on, it may look a little stupid (i dont think so) but its worth the fun and enjoyment you would get from swimming and knowing that you are safe.

Answer 3

Life jackets and other similar devices will restrict arm movement and make swimming even less enjoyable. Wet suits will however create some bouyancy and also allow better movement. In Brazil the water is warm so you will have to open the zippers some to let the water exchange.

Answer 4

i recommend those long cylinder shapes floats called noodles. they are very easy to carry around and handle plus they give you a lot of options when doing differant exercises

Answer 5

If you have a 3ml or thicker wet suit, it will keep you afloat, or for a better deal get a Scuba BC (bouyancy compensator) it looks like a vest jacket that you can air up as much as you want and it also makes floating and swimming easy.  You do not need an air tank to fill up the BC, you can air it up with your own breath.  Have fun

Answer 6

Well, if your 60 years old, then your skin must be as dry and porous as a sponge, so fill up with water and just float along.

OR get one of those blow-up couches and just relax. Bring some beer and kick back in your retirement.